For the first (red) book below go to:
EtsyWelcome to washcloth crafts!
If your child can roll a washcloth, wrap a rubber band around something, or tie a knot, he can easily make a TerryGami critter. While it does involve a bit of manual dexterity, it is nothing that cannot be accomplished with a little patience and practice. Like many crafts, a little practice makes all of the difference. Have them make the same critter a few times to see how they can perfect it.
If wrapping a rubber band is a bit difficult, try using string instead, if they can tie a knot, or use the tiny dreadlock rubber bands or orthodontic elastics, which now come in a wide array of colors. Match them to the washcloth, and the bands can hardly be seen.
If you think your children are far too young to sew, then choose critters that can be glued. Many of the projects in both books can be glued or sewn. Use paper bag clips or clamps to hold the body part together until it is dry or use rubber bands to do the job. If you don't want the material to snag when you take them off, just cut the rubber bands off. However, terrycloth is very forgiving, any snags can be trimmed without damaging the material.
Terrycloth is great for kids to learn how to sew on because, if the thread matches the material, the stitches often cannot be seen at all, especially if the stitches are small. With a little shaping and molding of the critter, kids can usually have a good result on their first try making a critter. Start with easy ones and build up to the more challenging ones.
Blunt-end, wide-eyed needles are recommended for everyone to use. The wide weave of the terrycloth allows everyone to use the blunt-end needles like yarn and darning needles.
Some of the TerryGami critters are a bit labor intensive. Older children will appreciate the challenge, and the younger ones will be happy to have some easy critters to make. The new book, like the first book, offers a little something for every age.
It wasn't that long ago that kids were clamoring for little collectable animals sold in gift shops. Now they can get satisfaction from creating their own little critters. They can choose the color and fashion the facial features, which can be just about anything from store bought items like acrylic gems or foam board, to natural items they find in the backyard. For a bow around the neck they can use ribbon or yarn or string or raffia, etc.
Children are so precocious today it is hard to put a finger on what age to start to teach them to sew. I have seen a five year old sew with the help of his mother. They especially need help holding the material together as they sew, so consider using bag clamps for this, as well.
Happy Crafting!
~Terry
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